Blessing

Matthew 5:3 - 11

Blessed [are] the poor in spirit: for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. Blessed [are] they that mourn: for they shall be comforted. Blessed [are] the meek: for they shall inherit the earth. Blessed [are] they which do hunger and thirst after righteousness: for they shall be filled. Blessed [are] the merciful: for they shall obtain mercy. Blessed [are] the pure in heart: for they shall see God. Blessed [are] the peacemakers: for they shall be called the children of God. Blessed [are] they which are persecuted for righteousness' sake: for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. Blessed are ye, when [men] shall revile you, and persecute [you], and shall say all manner of evil against you falsely, for my sake.

I heard an awesome sermon on the radio on my way to work this morning. The minister was talking about God's blessing, and how the term "blessing" has been hijacked by secular society and how God's own people often don't even understand it.

The word "blessed" Jesus used here in Greek is "makarios." The word "makarios" came from the name of the island of Cyprus in ancient Greece. Because Cyprus had perfect climate and fertile soils, the ancient Greeks believed anybody living on the island had it made in the shade; all the resources needed for a happy, content, prosperous life was on the island. It was self-contained.

As I heard that part, I said to myself "Oh! I see where he's going! That's deep!" Just because you have all your bills paid and there's money in the bank and the Benz is in the garage doesn't mean you are blessed. Conversely, just because you're going through a trial, a time of setbacks and heartaches doesn't mean that you are not blessed.

Are you ready? Here's the big revelation. God's blessing is self-contained happyness, unaffected by your situation. You can be a multi-millionairre and be miserable. You can be homeless and be happy. It's not about where you are financially or materialistically, but where you are spiritually. Blessing is the peace that passes all understanding; the peace that says "I should be terrified and miserable, but God has given me happyness." Blessing is the joy of the Lord, which is our strength. God's blessing has nothing to do with circumstances, but everything to do with your heart.

Cool, huh?


Cheers and God bless!

Hoss